Bufallo Creek Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bufallo Creek Lake Dam in Linn, Iowa, stands as a testament to engineering excellence, designed by Robinson Engineering Co and completed in 1965.


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Summary

This gravity dam on Buffalo Creek serves primarily for recreation, with a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a surface area of 35 acres. The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment highlight its importance in water resource management while ensuring public safety.

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Bufallo Creek Lake Dam is a vital infrastructure in Coggon, Iowa. With a structural height of 12 feet and a length of 154 feet, the dam provides a serene recreational spot for locals and visitors alike. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam's condition is not rated, signaling the need for regular inspections and maintenance to uphold its integrity and safety standards.

Situated in a picturesque location on Buffalo Creek, Bufallo Creek Lake Dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates. With its unique design, the dam stands as a symbol of sustainable water management practices in Iowa. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's structural integrity and public safety, Bufallo Creek Lake Dam remains a vital asset for the community, serving both recreational and environmental purposes.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

154

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

BUFFALO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

35

Drainage Area

145

Nid Storage

300

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.